Wichita State University Foundation and Alumni Engagement (WSUFAE) is looking to hire a talented, dynamic, dedicated, and self-motivated individual as the Director of Development for our College of Applied Studies with our fundraising team. As the Director of Development, you will play a pivotal role in identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding prospective donors. Your efforts will directly support the mission and vision of Wichita State University, helping to shape the future of education and innovation. The WSU College of Applied Studies comprises five departments whose synergy provides a powerful understanding of life span development and academic innovation in living and learning. It prepares teachers, school professionals, school counselors, educational psychologists, exercise scientists, athletic trainers, sport management professionals, and community and organizational leaders for careers. The job duties for this position include:

1. Identification and Prospective Donors:
   • Collaborate with the Data Sciences team to identify, qualify, and prioritize potential major gift donors.
   • Develop and maintain a pipeline of prospective donors through research, networking, and outreach.
   • Collaborate with the Senior Director of Development for Engineering and other senior leadership to create and execute strategies for donor identification.

2. Cultivation and Solicitation:
   • Manage and grow a portfolio of individual donors to achieve giving goals.
   • Develop and implement personalized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies for a select group of high-net-work donors.
   • Collaborate with the marketing and communications team to create high-quality communication with major and principal donors through customized proposal, presentation, and engagement activities.
   • Communicate and be the liaison between assigned college/departments and WSUFAE by coordinating prospect identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship with college dean.
   • Build and maintain meaningful relationships with prospects through personalized outreach, meetings, and events.
   • Develop tailored cultivation and solicitation strategies for each donor based on their interests and capacity to give.
   • Lead or assist in the coordination of gift solicitation efforts, ensuring that appropriate steps are taken in the donor journey.

3. Gift Solicitation and Closing:
   • Actively work towards meeting established annual targets and objectives, collaborating with team members to ensure cohesive efforts.
   • Develop and execute strategies to secure financial support in alignment with both personal, team, and WSUFAE’s fundraising goals.
   • Lead the solicitation of major and principal gifts with donors in your portfolio and close contributions that support WSU’s priorities.

4. Administrative Duties:
   • Develop and manage an annual budget for fund-raising activities and professional development.
   • Develop annual fundraising goals and objectives in conjunction with WSUFAE’s goals.
   • Maintain accurate computer and paper files as necessary.
   • Perform any other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from accredited institution required
• Three years development of Major Gifts ($50,000 or more) experience in higher education or equivalent experience
• Must be willing to travel with occasional weekend and evening duties
• Must have and maintain valid driver’s license and insurance
• Must meet position metrics which include various fundraising objectives that can change year to year
• Project professional image at all times
• Commitment to the WSUFAE core values of Integrity, Excellence, Collaboration and Service

Required Skills

• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
• Highly motivated and to work effectively independently or as part of a team
• Maintain confidentiality of information, records, and materials

Physical Requirements

• Frequent and sudden movements from sitting, standing, bending, reaching, and walking
• Frequent standing or sitting for prolonged periods
• Frequent exposure to large crowds, loud noises, and/or bright and/or flashing lights
• Frequent intra- and inter-state travel by car and plane
• Frequent travel requiring two or more days overnight stays
• Frequent lifting up to 20 pounds
• Occasional lifting up to 50 pounds when traveling
• Occasional exposure to outdoors and hot and inclement weather

Preferred Requirements and Skills

• Graduate degree from accredited institution
• Experience managing budgets
• Knowledge of Wichita State University and a commitment to higher education

Whether you are just starting your career or are an experienced professional, we invite you to submit your resume for future opportunities with us. Position Overview: This job posting serves as a general application for individuals interested in future roles across various departments and teams within WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement. While we may not have a specific position that fits what you are looking for at this moment, we are continuously growing and always looking for new team members who bring unique skills and perspectives. If you are interested in being considered for any future opportunities, please submit your resume and indicate your areas of interest and expertise. We will keep your information on file and contact you when a relevant position becomes available. Who Should Apply: We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and with a variety of skill sets. Ideal applicants should possess:

• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• A passion for education and giving back
• A desire to contribute to a positive work culture

How to Apply: Please submit your resume along with a brief cover letter outlining your skills, areas of interest, and why you would be a great fit for our team. Be sure to include any relevant experience, certifications, or projects that demonstrate your qualifications. WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement is an equal opportunity employer and strives to provide a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply. We look forward to reviewing your application and exploring how you can contribute to our future success!